Essential Ways To Prepare For A Fertility Evaluation

Posted on: 28 September 2016

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Infertility is a big problem for many couples of all ages. In fact, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that a million American women between the ages of 15 and 44 are infertile. Around 7.5 million women have impaired fecundity. The good news is that many infertility problems can be treated. Depending on your personal health history and how old you are, your doctor may recommend starting with a fertility evaluation before specific treatments can be discussed and determined. Here's how to best prepare for a fertility evaluation.

Compile Your Key Medical Information

Get together any medical documents or files that you personally have. Also make a written list of any preexisting medical problems that you and your partner have faced. Be sure to include information about any infertility assessments or treatments that either you or your partner have experienced.

Be Prepared to Answer Detailed Questions About Your Health History

Being questioned is one thing that is sure to happen during a fertility evaluation. If you're able to be forthcoming and provide a lot of details, that will help the doctor more easily and rapidly diagnose the problem and establish a treatment plan. Some of the things the doctor may ask about include the following:

  • How old you were when you began menstruation.
  • The amount of time since your last period.
  • The amount of time you have been actively trying to get pregnant while having regular sexual intercourse.
  • How frequently you and your partner have unprotected intercourse.
  • Whether you have ever been able to get pregnant in the past.
  • How much daily exercise you engage in.
  • What the basics of your diet are.
  • Whether you or your partner smoke.
  • Whether you drink or use drugs.

Make a List of Must-Ask Question

Going to a fertility evaluation is a rare occurrence. Get the most out of the situation by preparing questions that you have and get them answered by a knowledgeable professional who has expertise in the field. Make a list of written questions so you don't forget any in the heat of the moment. Some questions that you may choose to ask include:

  • What do you think are the most probable reasons why we have not yet conceived a child?
  • What kind of tests do you think will be necessary?
  • What are the long-term complications of recommended treatments?
  • What are the back-up plans you may offer if the treatment does not work?

Finally, keep in mind that a fertility evaluation can be the start of getting answers to your pressing questions and solving the problems that have been causing you emotional anguish. Try to do get in contact with a fertility care center, such as Advanced Urology Associates, as soon as possible if you are grappling with fertility concerns. You can then start moving forward as you assess your options and make the best decisions for you.